Crime
17-year-old Jaleek Mitchell killed in shooting near Romare Bearden Park in Charlotte
Tragedy struck uptown Charlotte on Saturday night as 17-year-old Jaleek Mitchell was fatally shot at Romare Bearden Park.
The incident occurred shortly before 10 p.m. on November 2, when Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) officers responded to reports of gunfire in the park area.
Upon arrival, officers found Mitchell suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency medical personnel transported him to the hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
A section of the park and South Church Street were cordoned off while police investigated the scene, with multiple CMPD officers actively working to gather evidence and interview witnesses.
Romare Bearden Park has been the focus of CMPD’s efforts to curb crime over the past year, particularly through “Operation TRIO,” which has targeted several high-profile areas with heightened crime rates.
The park has previously been the site of a violent July 4th altercation and a New Year’s Eve shooting that left five people injured. CMPD Major Bret Balamucki, speaking earlier this year, acknowledged ongoing efforts to improve the area’s safety: “We constantly battle the perception of safety. Even one incident can change how people feel when they come here with family or friends.”
Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the shooting to contact the Homicide Unit at 704-432-TIPS or to share tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.
Authorities are currently investigating a double homicide at the Brighton Community Center, located at 3810 7th Avenue in Bessemer, Alabama.
Multiple law enforcement agencies have responded to the scene to assist with the investigation.
Details surrounding the incident remain limited at this time, and authorities have not yet released information about the victims or any potential suspects.
Investigators are working diligently to gather evidence and interview witnesses to determine the circumstances leading to the tragic event.
Residents in the area are urged to remain cautious and report any information that may assist law enforcement in their investigation.
Anyone with details about the incident is encouraged to contact the Bessemer Police Department or submit a tip anonymously through local crime-stopper programs.